C & C Plumbing Complaint - Unfair service charge practice

SEBRING, FLORIDA -- We requested from this company to repair a leak in our water pipe. They said that they will charge $65/hour. One of their plumbers came at around 3 pm. He looked at the problem and said that it would take him at least 3-4 hours to fix the leak. He called back their company and told them that he would have to come back the following day because it was already late in the afternoon. The following day, at about 2 pm, another plumber came with a helper. All the while, we thought that they would still be charging $65/hour. It took them less than 4 hour to patch the leak. They did not even replace the copper. When the bill came, we were really surprise that we were charged $572.10. The bill includes the charge of $65 from the previous plumber who came a day before. He did not even do anything. The other labor charge includes $115/hour for the other plumber with his helper. Other charges include the materials they used to patch the leak.

My concerns are:
1. Why would they bill us $65 for the previuos plumber who did not do anything? We are not suppose to pay for a service that was not even their.
2. Why would they send two men to do a one man's job? That would be unfair to the consumer. If they will do that, they should have informed the consumer before hand so that the consumer has the option to decline.

Totally agree, however, when they showed up did you get a written estimate/quote? Ask them?

Posted by tnchuck100 on 2007-05-25:

Not that it helps this time but in the future it will pay to get a written estimate BEFORE any work is done. That way you cannot be taken for any more than the minimum charge for a service call. Remember, in all cases, what they SAY doesn't count. Only what is in writing.

It do agree with you, they definitely lined you up to rip you off. Hopefully others will read your post and avoid this less than ethical company.

Posted by Ponie on 2007-05-25:

I wouldn't like to be slugged with a bill of that size either. (One of the many reasons I enjoy apartment living.) I think the $65 charge for the first day was legitimately applied. The problem was diagnosed and you were informed what had to be done to correct it. I would compare it to taking my car in because the gas gauge isn't operating. I expect to have that original cost applied. However, I certainly agree with chuck, in the future be sure you get everything in writing--even if it's a relative. :)

Let's look at the bright side--maybe no more plumbing problems for the next 20 years.